Seattle - Seattle-based HomeStreet Bank announced today that it has raised $54,780 for Northwest zoos through its “Wild About Zoos” partnership with Woodland Park Zoo, Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium, and Oregon Zoo. The six-month partnership, which ran from April 1 through September 30, was based on a $5 donation for every bank account, mortgage, loan and insurance policy opened. The money will be used to support zoo programs and operations.

HomeStreet generated 10,956 new accounts between April and September, surpassing its original minimum financial commitment of $40,000 by 37%.

“This successful partnership with HomeStreet Bank,” notes Woodland Park Zoo President and CEO Deborah Jensen, “helps our zoo to continue teaching children and their families about the wonders of nature and how we each can be a part of sustaining wildlife and their habitats.”

HomeStreet Bank’s tradition of community involvement dates from its early years, taking the form of community leadership, volunteerism and charitable contributions. Each year, HomeStreet contributes 2% of its annual pre-tax profits to organizations in its communities. The “Wild About Zoos” partnership was a major element of the bank’s corporate focus on parks and open spaces.

Woodland Park Zoo is a top award-winning zoo and is highly respected for its conservation efforts worldwide. Featuring hundreds of rare and endangered animal species and a vast variety of plant species, the 103-year-old zoo has become a long-standing treasure in the region, serving people of all ages and backgrounds. The zoo is open every day of the year. For more information, visit www.zoo.org.